How I Can Help Buyers…

I am watching the Austin real estate market every day. I know what’s trending in real estate, and I work hard to stay up to date on what is happening in the business and development communities as well.

Public sites like Zillow and Redfin are viewed as a threat by some real estate agents, but I actually find them helpful. Clients can share their “likes” with me, which helps me more quickly understand their taste and desires. My complementary property search through the MLS, in addition to watching for “coming soon” and “off market” opportunities, helps me and my clients zero in on the right property quickly and efficiently together. For the clients who prefer not to engage with the various real estate sites I’m obviously happy to do it for you! I remain convinced that Zillow cannot compete with the genuine commitment of a local (human) realtor.

Familiarity with the market and recent trends plus a careful study of similar property sales in the area is critical to putting together the best offer (price and terms) for the property you fall in love with. Offer paperwork is a LOT; it makes no sense to try to do it alone. In a strong market offer documents need to come together thoroughly and quickly.

I have an extensive background in mortgage lending as well as local connections to save buyers time, money and stress when it comes to financing.

In the state of Texas, a buyer’s agent can represent only YOU, not both the buyer and seller, for example, as in other states. TX realtors undergo regular ethics training, and have a fiduciary responsibility to represent their client to the best of their ability. In turn the seller’s agent represents only the seller. A listing agent will not have the buyer’s best interest in mind, and vice versa. Make sure someone is looking after YOU.

Utilizing a representative to negotiate on your behalf is more comfortable and generally more productive.

Agents help coordinate inspections and partner in assessing/evaluating the condition of a property.

Agents continue to negotiate on behalf of buyers throughout the process whether that be repairs, credits, repair progress or contract adjustments.

Agents collect and review important supplementary information on the buyer’s behalf (HOA Rules & Regulations, HOA costs, neighborhood deed restrictions etc.)

Having a partner to educate you on the process and help navigate a transaction to a smooth closing is invaluable. I think my history as an educator paired with my real estate work makes me an ideal agent for first time buyers.

In Texas sellers pay commissions as negotiated with their listing agent before the house ever hits the market. When the property closes, the seller pays the agreed upon commission either to their own agent alone, or to two agents (who share the commission) when the buyer has a representative. Don’t make the mistake of purchasing without an experienced agent by your side.